# Naryab

Naryab/Nariäb(نرياب) is a village and union council located in Tehsil Thall, Hangu district, within the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan. The predominant Pashtun tribe in this locale is the Bangash, however the village also accommodates Orakzai migrants who have resettled there following upheavals and conflict in Tirah and Orakzai Agency. Both the Bangash and Orakzai belong to the Karlanri confederation of Pashtuns.

## Geography

To the west, Naryab is adjacent to Torawrai, a village predominantly populated by Wazirs and Orakzai. Its eastern border extends to Kahi, while to the south it borders Sarozai. Additionally, to the southwest lies Doaba, recognised as an urban trading hub attracting Pashtuns from surrounding villages who gather there to engage in commerce, buying and selling various goods.
In the upper reaches of Naryab, a significant dam was constructed in the late 1900s by Pashtuns of Kurram who contributed to its completion. This dam supports a diverse fish population that locals harvest, and it has become a popular tourist destination for Pashtuns from across the FATA region. Visitors gather here for barbecues and to enjoy the picturesque mountainous surroundings with waterways in the vicinity. Unfortunately, the dam has also been the site of numerous tragic incidents where both tourists and locals have lost their lives due to the perilous nature of swimming in its waters, which poses a significant drowning risk.

## Issues

Significant challenges such as the infrastructure development of the road connecting Naryab to Doaba have been successfully addressed, resulting in well-constructed roads that now facilitate smooth travel for cars, large vehicles, and motorcycles. Previously hazardous due to poor conditions, this road improvement has mitigated potential accidents.
However, electricity remains a pressing issue, with many villagers depending on solar panels, which are weather-dependent, or electric generators for power. Additionally, the absence of petrol stations in Naryab necessitates residents to travel to Doaba for fuel.
Moreover, the lack of medical and dental facilities in Naryab compels locals to journey to distant locations such as Hangu or Thall for healthcare services. While there are a few doctors in Naryab addressing minor medical concerns and several pharmacies providing essential medicines, the local community still faces challenges in accessing comprehensive healthcare.

## Tribes

Bangash and Orakzai

## History

The region of Naryab, renowned for its stunning beauty and extraordinary fertility, has likely been a center of human habitation for millennia. Its verdant fields and ideal climate have not only sustained life but also safeguarded relics from ancient civilizations. Tribesmen often discover artifacts like Gandharan and Kushan idols in the soil, revealing the area's profound historical and cultural legacy.
The village of Naryab, as it exists today, is believed to have been established in the 14th century. Local oral traditions suggest that it is among the oldest settlements in the Miranzai Valley, predating the nearby town of Hangu and neighboring villages like Doaba. Its historical prominence is underscored by its longevity and consistent habitation, marking it as a cornerstone of the region's heritage. The village is predominantly home to the Bangash Pashtun tribe, who have resided there for centuries, along with a smaller Orakzai minority.
During the 19th century, Naryab faced a significant threat when the Wazirs launched a fierce attack on the area. The villagers, known for their resilience and solidarity, defended their homeland valiantly. Their unwavering courage ensured that Naryab remained unconquered, symbolizing the enduring strength and unity of its people. This pivotal moment in the village's history highlights its legacy as a resilient and culturally rich community.
Between 2006 and 2009, Naryab endured a significant challenge when the TTP launched repeated attacks on the village, aiming to seize control of the Local Markaz, a vital community institution. Despite the intensity of their campaign, the TTP's efforts ultimately failed. The steadfastness and solidarity of the local population proved crucial in repelling their advances, reinforcing Naryab's legacy as a community resilient in the face of adversity.
Today, Naryab is celebrated not only for its fertile and picturesque landscape but also as a symbol of historical continuity and resilience, with deep roots in the past and an unyielding spirit through the trials of time.